A-B SST-PB3-SLC Communication Module

A-B SST-PB3-SLC Communication Module

The SST-PB3-SLC is a PROFIBUS DP communication scanner module used in Allen-Bradley SLC 500 PLC systems. It is manufactured by SST (Woodhead / Molex) and allows the SLC controller to connect to and control PROFIBUS field devices and remote I/O networks.

Product Information

• Brand: SST (Woodhead / Molex, used with Allen-Bradley systems)
• Part Number: SST-PB3-SLC
• Type: PROFIBUS DP Communication Module (Scanner / Master)
• System: Allen-Bradley SLC 500
• Function: PROFIBUS network master for remote I/O and field devices

Key Technical Features

• Acts as PROFIBUS DP Master (Scanner) for SLC 500 system
• Supports communication with remote I/O, drives, valves, and field devices
• Data exchange mapped directly into SLC memory (I/O files and M0/M1 files)
• Supports large PROFIBUS networks (hundreds of data bytes per slave depending configuration)
• RS-485 PROFIBUS interface with standard 9-pin D-sub connector
• Configuration via engineering software (COM PROFIBUS / SST tools)

Function (Simple Explanation)

This module acts as a communication bridge:

SLC 500 PLC CPU
→ SST-PB3-SLC module
→ PROFIBUS network
→ remote I/O modules / drives / sensors

It does not control outputs directly. Instead, it transfers data between PLC and field devices over PROFIBUS.

System Role

• It is a communication processor module inside SLC chassis
• Works as a PROFIBUS DP Master (Scanner)
• Enables SLC PLC to integrate with Siemens-style PROFIBUS systems
• Essential for legacy European industrial automation systems

Application Areas

• Factory automation systems
• Conveyor and material handling systems
• Process control systems
• Automotive production lines
• Oil & gas and chemical plants
• Legacy PROFIBUS-based installations

Key Advantages

• Extends SLC 500 PLC with PROFIBUS capability
• Supports large distributed I/O networks
• Reliable industrial RS-485 communication
• Integrates Rockwell PLC with Siemens field devices
• Stable operation in harsh industrial environments

Precautions

• Requires correct PROFIBUS configuration (GSD + network setup)
• Not a standalone controller (must be installed in SLC rack)
• Requires termination resistors on PROFIBUS line
• Configuration is more complex than Ethernet-based modules
• Mostly used in legacy systems (not modern Ethernet/IP projects)